- Thomas Tuchel spoke at his first press conference on Wednesday afternoon
- His appointment as England’s new manager was confirmed earlier today
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Thomas Tuchel delivered a message to English fans who are dissatisfied with his appointment at his first press conference since Wednesday afternoon.
Tuchel is the third foreign manager to take charge of England, after Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello, and his appointment has not been well received in all respects.
Some fans believe the England manager should always be English, but the 51-year-old German will instead lead the national team to the 2026 World Cup.
Speaking to the media, Tuchel addressed the reactions of some supporters, as he said: ‘I’m sorry, I only have a German passport… but all these supporters can feel my passion for the English Premier League, how much I to work here, how I like living here.
‘Hopefully I can convince them that I am proud to be England manager.’
Thomas Tuchel has responded to the backlash over his appointment as he becomes England’s third foreign manager
Interim boss Lee Carsley sparked controversy last month when he refused to sing the national anthem before England’s Nations League matches against Ireland and Finland.
Tuchel, born and raised in Germany, was asked if he planned to sing God Save The King or follow Carsley’s example.
Tuchel replied: I understood it [FA CEO] Marking [Bullingham] that it is a personal decision.
‘I haven’t made my decision yet. I want to be honest with you. Your anthem is very moving.”
Tuchel will not start in his role until January, with Carsley set to remain on the sidelines for England’s final two Nations League matches against Greece and Ireland next month.
More to follow…